School of Record in Study Abroad: Practice and Opportunities

Learn what a School of Record is, its practices, challenges and emerging opportunities. Explore SoR partnerships in Spain with SpaCIE for short-term programs.

This post is based on the poster The Role of Schools of Record in Study Abroad Programs: Practices, Challenges, and Emerging Opportunities, by Prof. Dr. Miguel Buñuel, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. Prof. Buñuel will present his poster at NAFSA 2025, in San Diego, USA, where the important role of a School of Record partnership will be discussed. All rights of the poster and this post belong to Prof. Buñuel.

1. INTRODUCTION

Understanding the School of Record (SoR) Model in Study Abroad

As global student mobility increases, ensuring academic credit transfer becomes a critical component of successful study abroad experiences. One of the mechanisms that facilitates this is the School of Record (SoR) model—a solution particularly relevant for study abroad programs offered by non-accredited providers.

To better understand the current landscape, challenges, and opportunities surrounding the School of Record model, we conducted a survey among professionals in the international education community—both in the United States and abroad. The survey gathered insights on the perceived benefits and challenges of SoR partnerships, factors influencing the selection of SoR institutions or providers, and levels of awareness of the model outside the U.S. The findings, summarized in this post, shed light on the evolving role of Schools of Record in global academic mobility.

What Is a School of Record (SoR)?

A School of Record is an accredited higher education institution that issues official academic transcripts for students who participate in study abroad programs not directly affiliated with an accredited university. The SoR is responsible for formally reviewing and validating the academic integrity of the provider’s courses, ensuring they meet recognized academic standards. This enables students to transfer credits to their home institutions with greater ease and legitimacy.

Two Main Models of Academic Credit Transfer

Study abroad providers typically rely on one of two models to ensure their students receive academic credit:

1. Direct Enrollment Model

In this model, the study abroad provider partners with a local accredited university, allowing its students to enroll in courses organized and taught by that university. The courses are offered directly by the institution, and the students receive transcripts issued by the university, which are then used for credit transfer at their home institution.

2. School of Record Model

Alternatively, the study abroad provider designs and delivers its own courses independently. These courses are then submitted for review and approval by an accredited institution acting as a School of Record. While the SoR does not teach or deliver the courses, it is responsible for reviewing curricula, faculty credentials, and academic quality. Upon validation, the SoR issues official transcripts, supporting credit recognition by students’ home institutions.

2. SURVEY: RESPONDENT PROFILE 

A total of 28 professionals in international education participated in the survey. The majority (17) represented U.S.-based higher education institutions, followed by 9 from non-U.S. universities, and 2 from U.S. study abroad providers. Most respondents held administrative roles (19), while 8 identified as managers and 1 as a faculty member.

Among the U.S.-based respondents, slightly more than half (10 out of 19) had direct experience with a School of Record relationship. In contrast, none of the 9 non-U.S. respondents reported that a similar model existed in their countries. These respondents came from institutions in Italy, Turkey, Denmark, France, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. Interestingly, only 3 of the 9 non-U.S. participants were familiar with the School of Record concept prior to the survey, underscoring the limited international awareness of this U.S.-based model.

Buñuel (2025), School of Record, chart 1
Buñuel (2025), School of Record, chart 2
Buñuel (2025), School of Record, chart 3
Buñuel (2025), School of Record, chart 4
Buñuel (2025), School of Record, chart 5
Buñuel (2025), School of Record, chart 6

3. SURVEY RESULTS: CURRENT PRACTICES

3.1) Perceived Benefits of a School of Record Partnership

Survey participants were asked to rate the importance of various potential benefits associated with School of Record (SoR) partnerships using a four-point scale: Very Important (3), Somewhat Important (2), Not Very Important (1), Not Important at All (0). The average scores highlight the perceived value of SoR relationships from both the provider and institutional perspectives.

Benefits for Study Abroad Providers:

  • Increased enrollment due to easier credit transfer (Average score: 2.40)
    This was rated the most important benefit, indicating that streamlined credit recognition is a significant factor in expanding student participation.
  • Enhanced prestige and reputation via quality assurance (2.11)
    Seen as moderately important, reputation enhancement through association with an accredited institution adds value to provider programs.
  • Expanded access to international students through credit recognition (2.04)
    Respondents valued the potential for attracting a broader, global student base thanks to improved credit transfer mechanisms.

Benefits for Accredited Institutions Acting as a School of Record:

  • Advancing institutional visibility and reputation through partnerships (Average score: 2.18)
    The highest-rated benefit for accredited institutions, showing that strategic partnerships are seen as a way to enhance international standing.
  • Generating revenue through transcript service fees (2.04)
    Moderately important, financial incentives remain a relevant, though secondary, consideration.
  • Gaining privileged access for their own students to high-quality programs (1.86)
    Although beneficial, this aspect was considered less critical compared to visibility and financial returns.

3.2) Challenges to Implementation of a School of Record Partnership

Participants were also asked to evaluate the significance of various challenges that may arise in the implementation of a School of Record (SoR) partnership, again using the same four-point scale: Very Significant (3), Somewhat Significant (2), Not Very Significant (1), Not Significant at All (0). The results highlight practical and operational concerns faced by both study abroad providers and accredited institutions.

Challenges for Study Abroad Providers

  • Coordination with the accredited institution (Average score: 2.50)
    The most significant challenge identified, reflecting the complexity of aligning institutional processes and expectations.
  • Ensuring academic quality and integrity of programs (2.46)
    Closely following, this underscores the importance of maintaining high standards that meet the requirements of the SoR.
  • Cost of SoR services (2.21)
    While still notable, financial cost was viewed as slightly less critical than quality and coordination concerns.

Challenges for Accredited Institutions Acting as a School of Record

  • Ensuring academic quality and integrity of the programs (Average score: 2.75)
    This emerged as the most significant concern, emphasizing the institution’s responsibility for quality assurance before granting academic credit.
  • Coordination with the non-accredited provider (2.50)
    Inter-organizational collaboration was also seen as a substantial challenge, mirroring concerns on the provider side.
  • Administrative burden of managing transcripts (2.36)
    Although slightly lower in ranking, the operational workload involved in transcripting and record-keeping remains a considerable obstacle.

3.3) Criteria for Selecting a Partner

Survey respondents were asked to assess the importance of various factors considered when selecting a School of Record (SoR) or a study abroad provider for such a partnership. These evaluations help identify what institutions prioritize in establishing successful and sustainable collaborations. Responses were rated on a four-point scale: Very Important (3), Somewhat Important (2), Not Very Important (1), Not Important at All (0). In addition, open responses provided further context on considerations shaping these partnerships.

Key Factors for Study Abroad Providers When Selecting a School of Record:

  • Accreditation standards of the institution (Average score: 2.50)
    The highest priority, reflecting the importance of working with a well-recognized and compliant academic partner.
  • Academic reputation of the accredited institution (2.32)
    Reputation matters, especially when facilitating credit transfer and gaining trust from home institutions.
  • Cost-effectiveness of the SoR partnership (2.29)
    Financial sustainability remains an important consideration in evaluating potential partners.
  • Previous collaboration or relationship with the institution (1.89)
    While valued, prior collaboration ranked lower than institutional quality and affordability.

Additional Qualitative Factor:

  • Turnaround time for recording work and ease of students obtaining transcripts
    Efficiency and clarity in transcript processing were emphasized as critical to a positive student experience.

Key Factors for Accredited Institutions When Selecting a Study Abroad Provider:

  • Quality of the programs offered by the provider (Average score: 2.60)
    This was the top-rated factor, underscoring a strong commitment to academic excellence.
  • Course content and academic rigor of the programs (2.50)
    Closely aligned with program quality, this criterion reflects the SoR’s responsibility to uphold standards before awarding credit.
  • Potential revenue from the partnership (2.25)
    While not insignificant, financial incentives were secondary to academic considerations.
  • Previous collaboration or relationship with the provider (2.00)
    Existing relationships were moderately important but not decisive compared to quality assurance metrics.

Additional Qualitative Factors:

  • Overall reputation of the provider
    Respondents noted the importance of a provider’s record on student well-being, safety, and support services.
  • Mission and program alignment
    Institutional fit, such as shared educational goals, plays a role in partnership decisions.
  • Operational flexibility and localization
    Some institutions value providers who can “delocalize” accredited teaching by offering facilities and legal frameworks abroad. This can allow a university to run its own programs through a provider’s infrastructure—essential in regions where direct institutional presence is limited.

4. SURVEY RESULTS: SCHOOL OF RECORD PERCEPTIONS AND TRENDS

Growing Demand?

Buñuel (2025), School of Record, chart 7

We asked respondents whether they believe the demand for Schools of Record (SoR) is increasing in international education. Results were mixed, reflecting both optimism and uncertainty about future trends. While nearly half of respondents see rising demand, the large number of uncertain responses suggests a need for greater clarity and shared understanding of the SoR model across the field.


What Should Evolve in SoR Practices?

Respondents also shared ideas for innovations and improvements in the School of Record model. The suggestions reflect a desire for increased transparency, affordability, consistency, and operational efficiency:

  • Reasonable per-student cost: Lowering costs for students and providers is a recurring theme.
  • Better credit translation: Aligning SoR credit equivalencies (e.g., U.S. semester credits vs. ECTS) with industry standards.
  • Streamlined transcript delivery: Making the process smoother and less bureaucratic.
  • Greater transparency: Clear guidelines on how SoR partnerships operate, how courses are validated, and what students and institutions can expect.
  • Increased education and collaboration: Many practitioners expressed a need for more shared knowledge on how to set up SoR relationships.
  • Consistent academic recording: Standardization in how course content is documented for transfer purposes.
  • Secure electronic data transfer: A call for easier, digital systems for transcript and student data exchange.
  • Community dialogue: More opportunities for collective discussion about SoR best practices and standards.
  • Automation and standard frameworks: Introducing more systematic and scalable models for quality assurance.
  • Clearer distinction between models: Some noted the importance of differentiating study abroad through providers vs. traditional student exchange programs, each with its own strengths and limitations.

These insights emphasize the field’s appetite for innovation, along with a shared recognition that Schools of Record play a growing, yet evolving, role in international education.

5. SURVEY RESULTS: FOCUS ON SPAIN

Is Spain a Good Fit for a School of Record Partnership?

Buñuel (2025), School of Record, chart 8

Spain continues to be a highly attractive study abroad destination—and this is reflected in the survey results. When asked whether Spain would be an ideal location to establish a School of Record (SoR) partnership, respondents showed a strong level of interest. This indicates both enthusiasm and curiosity about the potential of SoR partnerships in Spain, though many institutions may still require further information or assurances before committing.


What Factors Influence the Decision to Partner in Spain?

Respondents identified a diverse range of academic, operational, and contextual considerations when evaluating the prospect of serving as a School of Record for a Spanish provider. These include:

Academic Fit and Quality
  • Types of courses offered and their relevance to institutional curricula
  • Program quality and alignment with institutional learning and assessment outcomes
  • English-language instruction and faculty qualifications
  • Potential for credit equivalency with home institution standards
Operational Feasibility
  • Existing or previous relationships with the provider
  • Clear communication, administrative support, and service reliability
  • Institutional willingness to meet deadlines and utilize U.S. data systems
  • Regulatory compliance and clarity of contractual terms
Strategic Considerations
  • Spain’s continued popularity among study abroad destinations
  • International accreditations and global visibility
  • Cost-effectiveness of the partnership for all stakeholders
  • Institutional culture and openness to collaboration

Some respondents shared specific challenges encountered in past or current partnerships—such as difficulties with Spanish faculty adhering to U.S. academic calendars or administrative systems—highlighting the importance of mutual understanding and structured agreements.

6. CONCLUSIONS

General Conclusions

  • Schools of Record (SoRs) play a crucial role in supporting the integrity of global education by enabling credit transfer for study abroad programs delivered by non-accredited providers. This ensures that students’ international academic experiences are recognized and can count toward their degrees.
  • SoR partnerships serve as an essential bridge between study abroad providers and students’ home institutions, helping translate diverse educational experiences into formally recognized academic credit.
  • At the heart of the SoR model is a commitment to academic quality assurance. SoRs review and validate faculty credentials, course content, teaching methods, and assessment standards to ensure programs meet the expectations of accredited institutions.
  • By formalizing credit validation, SoRs help legitimize and standardize non-traditional study abroad models, such as short-term or customized programs. This expands access to meaningful international learning while maintaining academic rigor.

International Awareness and Practices

  • Many non-U.S. respondents were unfamiliar with the School of Record (SoR) concept, revealing a notable knowledge gap in the global international education landscape.
  • Most international participants indicated that no formal SoR structure exists in their countries to validate credits from non-accredited study abroad providers—though a few parallels may exist.
  • The SoR model appears to be primarily a U.S.-based practice, with few institutional equivalents operating formally elsewhere.
  • This limited global awareness presents both a challenge and an opportunity: a challenge in terms of establishing international partnerships, and an opportunity to educate and engage global peers in adopting or adapting the model.
  • International relations offices worldwide could benefit from professional development and shared dialogue around SoRs as a mechanism for academic credit assurance, particularly as the demand for flexible and innovative global learning options continues to grow.

Main Survey Results at a Glance

  • 📈 Top Benefit for Study Abroad Providers:
    Increased enrollment through easier credit transfer, making programs more attractive to students and home institutions.
  • 🌐 Top Benefit for Accredited Institutions Serving as a SoR:
    Enhanced institutional visibility and reputation through trusted international partnerships.
  • ⚠️ Top Shared Challenge:
    Both providers and institutions cited coordination between partners and ensuring academic quality and integrity as the most significant implementation barriers.
  • 🧭 Key Selection Criteria for Study Abroad Providers Choosing a SoR: Academic reputation of the SoR institution; Accreditation standards; Cost-effectiveness of the partnership.
  • 🏫 Key Selection Criteria for Accredited Institutions Choosing a Provider: Quality of programs offered by the provider; Academic rigor and content of courses

These findings reflect a strong mutual interest in maintaining academic standards, operational efficiency, and strategic collaboration in School of Record partnerships.

Conclusions on Spain

  • Spain remains a top destination for U.S. and international students studying abroad, thanks to its rich academic, cultural, and linguistic offerings.
  • Direct enrollment in Spanish universities is likely the most appropriate model for semester- or year-long programs, given the academic strength and global reputation of Spain’s higher education institutions. For instance, all Madrid public universities are Top Global Universities:
Buñuel (2025), School of Record, table 1
  • For shorter academic experiences, such as summer schools or customized short-term courses, the School of Record (SoR) model offers a flexible and effective alternative to ensure academic credit transfer and maintain academic integrity.

Case Example: SpaCIE – Spain Center for International Education

SpaCIE positions itself as an ideal partner for SoR collaboration—particularly for U.S. institutions seeking academically rigorous, internationally diverse short-term programs in Madrid, Spain.

  • Academic Rigor
    All courses are university-level, designed and delivered by experienced faculty and professionals with recognized academic and professional credentials.
  • 🌍 Global Outlook
    SpaCIE fosters an intercultural environment by hosting students from around the world, where U.S. students are a minority and no single nationality dominates.
  • 🧩 Curricular Flexibility
    SpaCIE offers the ability to design, adapt, or co-create academic programs to meet the needs of institutional partners and their student cohorts.
  • 🤝 Commitment to SoR Collaboration
    SpaCIE is prepared to engage in a School of Record relationship, ensuring: Transparency; Academic quality assurance; Alignment with partner institutions’ credit and curriculum standards.

✅ Interested in Partnering with SpaCIE as our School of Record?

Download here SpaCIE’s Call for a School of Record Partnership

Are you a University or College looking to expand your short-term study abroad offerings with high-quality academic programs in Madrid?

At SpaCIE – Spain Center for International Education, we are actively exploring School of Record (SoR) partnerships with accredited universities and colleges to support credit recognition for our academically rigorous, internationally diverse programs.

The main strengths of a SoR partnership with SpaCIE include:

Academic rigor: All courses are university-level, developed and taught by faculty and practitioners with recognized expertise and academic credentials. SpaCIE courses prioritize depth and quality over “academic tourism.”

🌍 Global outlook: SpaCIE hosts students from across the globe, with no single nationality predominating—U.S. or any other country’s students are a minority, ensuring a rich intercultural environment.

🧩 Curricular flexibility and tailored collaboration: SpaCIE can develop or adapt high-quality academic programs in coordination with partner institutions. We could co-develop innovative programs.

🤝 Willingness to engage in a SoR partnership, with a commitment to transparency, quality assurance, and academic alignment.

🏫 Opportunity for Recruiting Bright Spanish High-School Students for the SoR’s bachelor programs: Acting as SpaCIE’s SoR raises the opportunity for your university of recruiting great applicants for your bachelor programs at home through SpaCIE’s Pre-University Summer School.

📩 Let’s connect!
If your institution is open to a conversation about serving as a School of Record—or if you’d like to learn more about our programs—please reach out to us directly:
📧 info@spacie.education

Together, we can expand access to meaningful, credit-worthy study abroad experiences in Spain.

Bright New Year Ahead: Wishes for Global Unity and Peace!

As we welcome 2025, SpaCIE extends heartfelt greetings to our global community, from the vibrant heart of Madrid to every corner of the world. May this new year be filled with understanding, compassion, and transformative actions that bring us closer to a peaceful, united world.

Looking back on the past year, we celebrate the resilience and dedication that defines SpaCIE. Our students, faculty, staff, and their families have shaped SpaCIE into a community marked by diversity, support, and collaboration. Together, we’ve built a foundation of strength and hope that propels us into the future.

  1. Support Peace Initiatives: Actively engage with organizations dedicated to peace-building and conflict resolution. Whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, every effort contributes to a more peaceful world.
  2. Promote Cultural Understanding: Embrace the richness of diversity by connecting with different cultures. Through dialogue and empathy, we can break down barriers and foster deeper global connections.
  3. Advocate for Accessible Education: Education is a powerful tool for change. Support initiatives that provide quality education, particularly in areas affected by conflict. By empowering others with knowledge, we create pathways to peace and sustainability.
  4. Practice Kindness in Your Community: Small acts of kindness ripple outward. Begin at home and in your local communities—offering compassion, understanding, and support can inspire positive global change.

Together, we can create a year of meaningful change. By aligning with SpaCIE’s vision of unity, understanding, and global harmony, your actions contribute to a future where compassion and peace prevail. Let us work together to leave a lasting legacy for the generations to come.

As we step into the year ahead, let the spirit of unity guide our shared journey. May 2025 be a year of growth, compassion, and unwavering commitment to building a peaceful, connected world.

Study Abroad and US Students: Opportunities for Success

Study abroad programs have long been hailed as transformative experiences, enriching students’ personal and professional growth by exposing them to new cultures, ideas, and challenges. But what do students themselves think about the impact of these programs on their lives and careers? A recent report by Terra Dotta sheds light on this question in the USA, revealing the profound significance students attribute to study abroad experiences and highlighting areas where improvements are needed to enhance accessibility.

Looking for study abroad!

Recognizing the Importance of Study Abroad

According to Terra Dotta’s survey, conducted in winter 2024 and encompassing 258 students interested in or having participated in study abroad programs, nearly 90 percent of respondents view study abroad as either somewhat or very important for their personal and professional development. Among those who have already taken part in such programs (half in summer programs such as those organized by SpaCIE), more than half described the experience as very important. This underscores the widespread recognition among students of the value that studying abroad brings to their lives.

Key Skills and Transformative Experiences

Participants in study abroad programs identified a range of skills gained during their time abroad that they believe will be invaluable for their future careers. Adaptability and resilience topped the list, followed closely by cross-cultural communication and problem-solving in new and unfamiliar situations. Moreover, the impact of study abroad extends beyond skill acquisition; over 80 percent of students reported a significant shift in their worldview as a result of their experiences, with many describing it as profoundly challenging their global assumptions and beliefs.

Navigating the Challenges of Study Abroad

While the benefits of study abroad are clear, students also face obstacles in accessing these opportunities. Cost emerged as a significant barrier, with two-thirds of respondents citing it as a primary impediment. Additional expenses such as visa fees, transportation, and living costs further contribute to the financial burden. Despite these challenges, students are resourceful in financing their study abroad experiences, with many relying on financial aid and scholarships to cover the costs. However, there remains a need for greater support in this area, as indicated by the majority of respondents who expressed a desire for easier access to financial assistance.

Promoting Accessibility

Recognizing the importance of expanding access to programs for studying abroad, some colleges and universities have implemented initiatives to mitigate financial barriers. These include free passport programs and scholarships targeted at first-generation or underrepresented minority students. Furthermore, an increasing number of institutions are offering study abroad opportunities during students’ first year, aiming to foster a culture of international engagement from the outset of their academic journey.

Conclusion

The findings from Terra Dotta’s report underscore the profound impact of study abroad on students’ personal and professional development. From acquiring vital skills to broadening their perspectives, study abroad experiences have the potential to shape students into global citizens equipped to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. However, to fully realize the benefits of these programs, it is imperative that colleges and universities prioritize efforts to enhance accessibility and support for students from diverse backgrounds. By breaking down barriers and expanding opportunities for international education, institutions can empower students to unlock their full potential and thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.

Sources:

https://www.terradotta.com/ebook-study-abroad-survey-2024.html

https://www.insidehighered.com/news/student-success/life-after-college/2024/04/23/international-education-aids-college-students

Radiant Wishes from SpaCIE: Global Harmony in the New Year!

As the dawn of 2024 approaches, SpaCIE extends warm greetings to our cherished global community. From the heart of Madrid to every corner of the world, our heartfelt wishes echo for a year adorned with understanding, compassion, and positive transformations.

Greetings for a Harmonious Tomorrow from SpaCIE

Looking back on the past year, we celebrate the resilient spirit that defines SpaCIE. Our students, faculty, staff, and their families have collectively contributed to shaping SpaCIE into a diverse, supportive, and thriving community.

  1. Supporting Peace Initiatives: Discover and champion organizations dedicated to conflict resolution and humanitarian aid. Whether through financial contributions or active volunteering, your support can manifest tangible impacts in fostering global peace.
  2. Promoting Cultural Understanding: Embrace the richness of diversity by actively engaging in the exploration of different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. Through open dialogue and empathy, we can build bridges that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.
  3. Advocating for Education: Recognizing education as a potent catalyst for lasting change, we encourage support for initiatives providing access to quality education. Especially in regions affected by conflict, empowering individuals through knowledge can break the cycle of violence and promote sustainable peace.
  4. Practicing Kindness Locally: The foundation for a more peaceful world begins at home and within our local communities. Extend acts of kindness to neighbors, colleagues, and strangers alike. These small gestures can create a ripple effect, sowing seeds of compassion and understanding globally.

Let’s collectively pledge to contribute to a more peaceful and equitable world. By heeding SpaCIE’s call to action, your efforts become a testament to the positive change achievable when united. Together, we have the power to create a lasting legacy of peace that transcends borders and generations.

As we set our intentions for the coming year, may the spirit of unity and understanding illuminate our path. Here’s to a transformative 2024, marked by purpose, compassion, and the unwavering pursuit of global harmony.

Season’s Greetings from SpaCIE

To all our former and future students, faculty and staff, as well as their families, SpaCIE wishes you health, peace, love and joy this holiday season and throughout the year 2023. All the best from Madrid!

We would like to extend these wishes to everyone, especially those who suffer from the unjust violence of war. May 2023 bring peace to the world!

Season’s greetings from the Spain Center for International Education

SpaCIE wishes you health, peace, love, and joy this holiday season and throughout 2022.

And if you’re still looking for the perfect gift for a loved one, how about tuition at one of our summer schools? Please, check them here: https://spacie.education/best-summer-schools-in-spain

For university students: https://climate.enveco.es/

For preuniversity students: https://preuni.enveco.es/

Ten reasons why studying abroad is SO worth it!

Let’s keep learning from someone who actually studied abroad! Let’s see this experience: https://theblondeabroad.com/10-reasons-studying-abroad-is-worth-it/

10. You will make lifelong friends.

It is high time that you add more diversity to your social group! Meet classmates from all over the world and start mingling with the locals. Nothing helps you understand the world better than getting an up close and personal view of cultures from around the globe.

Put yourself out there to make meaningful connections and be sure to keep in touch after you go.

9. Traveling is easy!

When you go study abroad in France, you can easily hop on a train to Germany or get a cheap flight to Spain. A whole new part of the world will suddenly be in your reach, making it easy and inexpensive to take mind-blowing trips every weekend.

8. Becoming bilingual will be a breeze.

Sitting in a classroom and clicking through language learning apps gets old quickly, but sharing secrets and laughing with new friends will bring your second language to life. Master a new tongue by immersing yourself! It is one of the best ways to become fluent.

Growing up in Southern California, Spanish was always very prevalent, but once I studied abroad during college, I fully immersed myself and became conversationally fluent!

7. It will expand your interests.

Maybe you are an expert surfer or a natural flamenco dancer. You will never know until you try! When you study abroad, you encounter so many new things and find yourself in places you could have never imagined. Try new things to find out what you truly love.

6. You will be a shoo–in for grad school or future jobs.

If you are thinking about continuing your education, studying abroad will be a major asset. Fortune really does favor the bold. Graduate schools look for students who push themselves and your career will be more attainable with a broader view of the world.

5. It will give you good stories for job interviews.

It’s not just grad school admissions teams that are impressed by studying abroad. The experience also looks great on your resume. Nothing says “independent go-getter” like traveling to the other side of the planet and carving out a place for yourself.

4. The new culture will make you into a culinary pro!

A new country means new foods. Every trip to the grocery store will be an adventure and you will discover new dishes each time you go out to eat. You might even get around to learning some impressive recipes.

3. You will grow beyond your comfort zone.

When you leave behind everything that is comfortable, you will find yourself in some unnerving situations. You will get to put yourself out there and take risks. You might get homesick and feel ready to run home to your mother—but you won’t.

You will overcome everything that, at first, seems so overwhelming and realize that you can face any challenge in your way.

2. You will see your own culture in a new light.

Sometimes you need to take a step back to get a view of what is really going on around you. After you see another way of living, you will have a new perspective on your own home and learn to appreciate what makes it unique.

1. It is a time of self-discovery.

Studying abroad will help you find yourself. Leaving your home and your family means you have to rely on yourself more than ever before. By expanding the boundaries of your world and exploring new countries and cultures on your own, you will see a side of yourself that you didn’t know you had.

Source: https://theblondeabroad.com/

10 Reasons to Study Abroad

Nothing better than learning from someone who actually studied abroad! Let’s check, for instance, https://theblondeabroad.com/10-reasons-study-abroad/ experience:

1. Travel

First thing’s first! Why did I initially decide to Study Abroad? To travel!

I had never been out of the country (with the exception of Southern California’s neighboring “state” Mexico). Studying Abroad gave me the opportunity to see the world, without compromising my education, all while I was still in school.

2. Education

To be perfectly honest I was really just looking for a reason to travel, but couldn’t find a way to justify taking a break from school to wander off somewhere in the world.

Solution: Study Abroad, see the world, get college credits! I decided to go to Spain.

While there, I would attend my Advanced Spanish Language class Monday-Friday and each weekend we had excursions organized to take us to other cities in Spain. I ended up earning something like 9 college units in one month. (In case you’re wondering, that’s more than half the units I would earn each semester!)

The education not only came from my Intensive Spanish Language Program, but through experiencing the culture.

3. Cultural Enrichment

The whole experience was so much more than I had bargained for. Not only were the cultural excursions eye-opening, but I had the opportunity to live with Spanish families.

During my one month program in Spain, I lived with a host family for two weeks in Salamanca, Spain and then another host family for two weeks in El Puerto de Santa Maria, Spain.

Living with a family from another culture truly opened my eyes. The son of my host family in El Puerto was deaf. My Spanish was terrible but ultimately it didn’t matter. We still found a way to communicate.

My own misconceptions melted away as I realized that language didn’t create a barrier between cultures.

4. Independence

Before studying abroad I was still living at home and attending a community college. I spent 18 YEARS in the same small town in Southern California. I needed to experience something bigger than my own backyard.

I saved all my pennies and paid my own way for the Study Abroad program. After living in Spain and then backpacking around Europe (at times alone) I realized just how capable I truly was on my own.

5. Lifelong Friendships

You become incredibly close with the other students that you are abroad with. Living with them, studying with them, partying with them and ultimately sharing the entire experience with them. Regardless of your differences, you come together and it makes everything so much sweeter.

6. The Ultimate Test

Is long-term travel right for you? I think the biggest hurtle for some people to overcome is homesickness or even culture shock. While a life of travel sounds appealing it isn’t for everyone!

I know that, even now, after all of my travels there can be loneliness with travel. Studying abroad is the perfect way to get your first taste for independent travel.

After my first trip abroad, I didn’t want to go home… obviously.

7. Diversity in Programs

I was working full time while in college so I couldn’t take off for a full year, or even a semester, to Study Abroad. Instead, I was able to take a summer off and enroll in an accelerated month long program in Spain.

After the program, I was able to spend another month backpacking around Europe. Talk to your school’s Study Abroad Program to see what they have to offer! And even if your University doesn’t offer the program you want, do what I did and see what a Community College has to offer.

There really is a program for everyone.

8. Learn a New Language

If you are interested in learning a second language Studying Abroad is a must. The best way to learn a language is to fully immerse yourself in it! After a month in Spain, countless hours in a Spanish class, a non-English speaking teacher and living with a Spanish speaking host family… I had no choice but to learn the language!

I learned more in one month in Spain than I had in 4 years of High School and College Spanish classes.

9. Resume

This is obviously debatable but, speaking from personal experience, I firmly believe that by Studying Abroad you have a leg up on other students who haven’t. Employers want to see that you are well rounded and have the capacity to do more than just study hard and get good grades.

Plus, if you’re adding a second language to your skill-set your “hire-ability” becomes leaps and bounds greater! In every interview I’ve ever had the topic of the conversation always turns to my Study Abroad and Spanish language experience.

10. Job Opportunities

Ultimately, Studying Abroad will not hurt your chances of getting a job. Like the effect it has on your resume, the end result is that it gives you a competitive advantage over other students who didn’t Study Abroad.

If you have any interest in working for a major corporation, a global brand or maybe even becoming a travel writer *insert wink here* cultural experience is essential. Your competition includes people from all over the world, not just your community.